Rt Hon David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, attended a round table meeting earlier today (28 March) with the Rail Minister, Paul Maynard MP.

Mr Evennett used the meeting as an opportunity to criticise Southeastern’s performance and to highlight the concerns he has surrounding the South Eastern franchise consultation.

Mr Evennett commented: “The train services from Bexleyheath and Crayford into central London have been extremely bad. There are constant delays, cancellations, overcrowding, and a severe lack of information from staff. Southeastern and Network Rail have let my constituents down, and there have been too many excuses.”

“I raise the issues with the Rail Minister, Southeastern, and Network Rail regularly yet things do not improve so I welcome the consultation on a new franchise.”

“There must be greater co-operation between the operator and Network Rail to deliver more rolling stock and better reliability, and I therefore support the proposals to ensure they work together as one team with a focus on performance.”

“However, I strongly oppose the suggestion to reduce the number of terminals that can be reached from Bexley, and believe the services to Charing Cross and Victoria are essential. This is something I have already raised with the Rail Minister and will be included in my submission to the consultation.”